Bismark Lake

Star4.64
273 reviews
Forest Recreation Management, Inc, P.O. Box 1168, Hill City, SD, 57745, USA
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

5,000 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

18 campsites

Season

Open season begins o...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Forest Recreation Management, Inc site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Bismark Lake
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard and tent-only non-electric sites cost $30 per night during both peak and non-peak seasons. Additional fees may apply for reservations and...
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Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
(605)673-9300
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What Campers Say

4.64

Top-Rated

Based on 273 reviews

11 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanspacioushiking

Some mention

noise

"Reviews highlight the campground's peaceful atmosphere, beautiful setting by the lake, and friendly, helpful hosts. While many appreciated the clean facilities and spacious sites, issues such as odor from vault toilets and generator noise were mentioned."

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Campground Map

Forest Recreation Management, Inc, P.O. Box 1168, Hill City, SD, 57745, USA

Bismark Lake

Forest Recreation Management, Inc, P.O. Box 1168, Hill City, SD, 57745, USA

Driving directionsIn Custer, SD, at the intersection of State Rt. 89/US Rt.16A (Mt.Rushmore Rd) and US Rt. 16/US Rt. 385 (5th St.), take US Rt.16A east for 4.8 miles (past Custer State Park entrance) to Bismarck Lake campground sign. Turn left at sign into campground.
Access to the campground is through Custer State Park near the West Highway 16A entrance. The road leading to the campground is a moderately busy two-lane paved highway.
Nearby places
Custer, SD (4.8 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, groceries, and fuel are available in the nearby town of Custer, SD, located approximately 5 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Bismark Lake

Experience the Black Hills' most inviting weather from late May through early September, when warm summer days give way to refreshingly cool evenings perfect for campfire conversations. Summer temperatures create ideal conditions for swimming and water activities, while the crisp mountain air keeps even the warmest afternoons comfortable. As autumn approaches, the aspens burst into golden flames against the evergreen backdrop. Winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland, though freezing temperatures make this a seasonal destination best enjoyed during the warmer months.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5

Peak season; summer reviews praise beauty, wildlife and ideal weather for lake activities.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall noted for vibrant foliage and quieter atmosphere in reviews; popular for scenic visits.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Open starting May 21 (late spring); fewer reviews for early spring conditions and accessibility.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground is closed over winter; season runs May 21–Sep 28.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 21, 2025 - September 7, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open season begins on May 21, 2025, and ends September 28, 2025.
  • Current Alerts: No current alerts or advisories are stated.

About Bismark Lake

Discover your perfect lakeside retreat at Bismarck Lake Campground, where towering Ponderosa pines and shimmering aspen groves create a natural sanctuary on the southeast shores of pristine Bismarck Lake. Each generously sized campsite offers its own private slice of wilderness, complete with breathtaking water views that transform from misty morning reflections to golden sunset panoramas. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, exploring scenic hiking trails, spotting diverse bird species through your binoculars, or launching your boat for a peaceful paddle, this tranquil haven invites you to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with nature's rhythms.
The campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and trailers. No group camping or luxury accommodations are mentioned.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is required by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay limit is up to 14 nights.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Bismarck Lake Campground offers a wide array of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. The lake is a popular spot for anglers and paddlers, with species like rainbow trout, northern pike, and catfish. Visitors also enjoy birding, horseback riding, and mountain biking in the surrounding forest. For those seeking a challenge, the trek to Black Elk Peak is highly recommended.
HikingHiking opportunities include a short trail along the lake's shoreline and the challenging trek to Black Elk Peak, the highest natural point in the U.S. east of the Rockies. The surrounding forest features trails for all abilities.
FishingFishing is popular in Bismarck Lake, which supports species like rainbow trout, brown trout, sunfish, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and catfish. One reviewer described it as 'the best accessible place in the Black Hills for solitude and a quiet fishing experience.'
BikingMountain biking is available on moderate terrain in the surrounding forest. The nearby Mickelson Bike Trail is also accessible.
BoatingThe lake is ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. A boat ramp is available for easy access.
Wildlife viewingWildlife is abundant, and common sightings include osprey, bald eagles, blue herons, and turtles. Birding is a favorite activity among early risers.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include uneven terrain at some campsites (e.g., steps leading down to tables/fire pits), wildlife activity, and potential exposure to strong ammonia smells from vault toilets during busy times.
Active AlertsNo current alerts or advisories are stated.

Weather at Bismark Lake

Reviews

4.6
273 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Bismark Lake is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground's peaceful atmosphere, beautiful setting by the lake, and friendly, helpful hosts. While many appreciated the clean facilities and spacious sites, issues such as odor from vault toilets and generator noise were mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 273 reviews

What Campers Love

Secluded and spacious campsites, picturesque lake views, clean facilities, and friendly hosts. Popular activities include fishing, kayaking, and hiking. Proximity to attractions like Custer State...
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Based on 273 reviews

Common Concerns

Recurrent complaints include the smell from vault toilets, generator noise, and inconsistent trash management. Some sites have challenging access, particularly for seniors or individuals with...
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Based on 273 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring bug spray and drinking water if concerned about water quality. Sites 4 and 15 are particularly recommended for their views and privacy. Early reservations are advised due to popularity.
Based on 273 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews emphasize the campground's beauty and the abundance of wildlife. Fall camping is noted for vibrant foliage and a quieter atmosphere. Off-season reviews are sparse, but accessibility...
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Based on 273 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Best accessible place in the Black Hills for solitude and a quiet fishing experience.' - Michael Miller 2. 'Stayed an extra night because we loved it so much. Campsite 4 is the best.' - Catherine...
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Based on 273 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 4: Highly recommended for its privacy and views of the lake and meadows. Site 15: Spacious and suitable for large vehicles. Site 3: Secluded but challenging for those with mobility issues due to...
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Based on 273 reviews

Accessibility Features

Some sites, like site 3, have steep steps that may be difficult for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the boardwalk and accessible trails are appreciated.
Based on 273 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but owners must pay a $2 fee per pet per night. Some complaints about unleashed pets were noted.
Based on 273 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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